I don’t know about you, but every year I reflect on where I am as a photographer and make a list of things I want to accomplish in the coming months.

And like most resolutions, many of mine find a way to go unfulfilled…

But this year is different because I’m committed to learning a new type of photography. I photograph landscapes almost exclusively, with a little bit of portraiture thrown in for good measure. I think that it’s time to get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself to try something new.

That got me thinking…

A great way to learn a lot about photography in a short period of time is to attend a photography workshop. So, I started hunting around for workshops to attend and was surprised at the sheer number that are available on topics that range from wildlife to portraiture, landscapes to travel photography, and everything in between.

I’ve spent a good deal of time sifting through workshop after workshop and have devised the following list of the very best ones for 2018.

Northern Warblers and More in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula

When: May 19-23, 2018 or May 24-28, 2018

Fee: $2,300

Workshop Leader: Paul Rossi

Photographers that want to learn all things bird photography in a gorgeous setting full of birds with an expert bird photographer will want to sign up for this workshop. Paul Rossi has been photographing birds in the area for 18 years, and brings his knowledge of photography and birding to this small group workshop.

May is a fantastic time to photograph birds in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula as there are two-dozen species of warblers that breed in this area with an additional three species that migrate through the area at this time. That includes brightly colored and aggressive males that experience their brightest plumage, which makes for colorful, eye-catching photos.

Instruction will revolve around the following topics:

How to identify birds

How to attract birds

Bird behavior

How to prepare and use your gear

Improving hand-to-eye coordination

Composition techniques

Photoshop tutorials

Paul’s workshops are limited to four people, so you get the small group experience and individualized instruction you need to really develop your bird photography skills.

Payment is due in full by April 1, 2018. For further details about this incredible opportunity to spend five full days in the field learning how to become a bird photographer, visit Paul’s website.

Strabo Photo Tour Collection

Kathy Adams Clark

Since 2003, Strabo Photo Tour Collection has been leading enriching photography tours around the world that are designed by and for photographers. Each year, they offer upwards of 47 photography workshops in breathtaking and highly desirable locations that focus on popular photography areas like wildlife, landscapes, architecture, and culture.

One of their most popular workshops is the Tanzania Photo Tour. Timed to coincide with the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet - the Serengeti migration - this trip offers you nearly two weeks to experience herds of wildlife, Serengeti sunsets, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and even a private interactive visit with the Maasai.

Strabo also offers a Turkey photo tour that puts you right at the intersection of East and West. You’ll experience the treasures of the Silk and Spice routes, explore incredible architecture like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and see the famous Spice and Grand Bazaars with their incredible array of colors, textures, sights, and smells while in Istanbul.

But this photo tour isn’t just concentrated in Istanbul. Instead, you will travel to the countryside and visit small villages where you’ll be met by some of the most friendly and welcoming people on earth. While there, you’ll have opportunities to capture stunning landscapes like the Cappadocia, touching portraits of the locals, and amazing architecture virtually everywhere you go.

If northern Africa is more your style, Strabo Tours’ Morocco photo tour should be on your list of top photography workshops. Centered around Marrakech, Fes, the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen, and the Sahara Desert, tour participants have an array of photo opportunities to document the breathtaking beauty of this area.

You will get to experience the world-renown Djemaa el-Fna Square, the ancient buildings of Fes, native villages, ancient medinas, and much more. The tour is even accompanied by a local Moroccan guide to give you even more insight into the beautiful people and interesting culture of this great country.

If you’re a landscape photographer, Iceland is sure to be your photographic paradise. Between its volcanic landscapes, incredible glaciers, abundance of waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the Northern Lights, everywhere you look is something breathtaking to record with your camera. In fact, on this tour, you’ll get to experience the Northern Lights and hike inside an ice cave.

This tour is led by Ron Rosenstock, who has led photo tours since 1967. His 40-plus years as a photographer will prove invaluable as you experience the wonders of this beautiful place. The tour is limited to 12 participants, so you’ll get plenty of time to rub elbows with other photography enthusiasts and get one-on-one time with Ron.

Banff Photo Workshops

If you’re looking for a photography workshop that offers a much more personalized experience, it’s tough to beat the one-on-one private tours offered by Banff Photo Workshops.

Yep, you read that correctly - one-on-one instruction with an expert photographer in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. What’s not to like about that?!

These guided landscape and wildlife photography tours are ideal for any type of photographer, whether you just bought your first DSLR or you’re a seasoned veteran that simply wants a guided tour of some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. Whatever your needs or skill level, Banff Photo Workshops will customize your experience to ensure you get the instruction you want.

From Banff area sunrises and Moraine Lake to Yoho and Lake Louise, night photography outings to wildlife tours, and just about everything in between, Banff Photo Workshops has it covered in terms of offering you the height of photography experiences and subject matter.

Even better, if you have a significant other or a child that wants to tag along, that’s no problem! And if there’s a group of you that want instruction, you get 20% off per person.

A custom experience, beautiful scenery, expert instruction, and prices that won’t break the bank... Now that’s a photography workshop!

National Photographic Adventures

When: Varies

Base Fee: Starting at $1,195; Varies Based on Adventure Location

Adventure Leader: Kevin Vandivier

National Photographic Adventures is the brainchild of Kevin Vandivier, a 40-year photography veteran. His love of wildlife, landscapes, and people has garnered him multiple awards, showings at world-famous galleries, and publications in the likes of Life Magazine, National Geographic Society, and Texas Monthly, as well as a season as photo editor of Texas Highways Magazine.

Kevin uses his passion and experience to mentor students on topics that range from composition and framing to lighting and processing to developing ways to tell better stories with your images. Each photo adventure involves one-on-one feedback from Kevin, daily demonstrations of photography techniques, and shooting assignments tailored to each individual that facilitate personal growth as a photographer.

Each adventure is recounted in National Photographic Magazine, which features the works of each person on the adventure. Each attendee gets several copies of the magazine to share with friends and family.

These adventures take place all over the U.S.: Grand Teton National Park, Monument Valley, Glacier National Park, West Texas, and Texas Hill Country. An Iceland adventure is also available for photographers that want to flex their photography muscles in one of the most breathtaking photography locations on earth.

Each adventure is limited to only seven participants, which ensures that each attendee has an opportunity to learn in an intimate environment that’s conducive to improving the quality of the photos you create. With such small groups, time is of the essence to book your spot before they’re sold out!

Whether you choose to adventure in Wyoming, Alaska, Iceland, or somewhere in between, National Photographic Adventures should be at the top of your list of photography workshops to attend in 2018!

San Miguel Photo Workshops

When: February 23-March 2, 2019

Base Fee: $3,950

Workshop Leaders: James Wilson & Mark Hemmings

San Miguel de Allende is one of the most beautiful and safest cities in all of Mexico. Surrounded by incredible landscapes, this photography gem is the ideal location to develop your photography skills.

Workshop leaders James Wilson and Mark Hemmings are experienced professional photographers that have an intimate knowledge of the area. They’ll guide you in small groups (the workshop is limited to 12 participants) while providing you with opportunities to hone your craft at every turn.

Aside from learning about photography in a stunningly beautiful place, you can enjoy the rich and vibrant culture that Mexico has to offer. What’s more, you’ll get to spend each day learning and working alongside other photography enthusiasts in a small group setting.

The workshop price includes accommodations at a private villa, daily dinners, all in-country transportation, and more.

Spots for the upcoming tour in 2019 are limited, so don’t miss out on your chance to experience the beauty of Mexico with San Miguel Photo Workshops!

Jennifer King Photo Workshops

When: Dates vary

Base Fee: Varies depending upon location

Workshop Leader: Varies

There are many great things about Jennifer King Photo Workshops.

For starters, there are workshops offered around the world in some of the most breathtaking locations you can imagine. From Iceland to Grand Teton National Park, the Great Smoky Mountains to France, Norway to the Oregon Coast, you can hone your photography skills and learn from professional photographers amongst some of nature’s most beautiful displays.

And these aren’t just “drive somewhere pretty and take photos” kind of workshops, either. These guys spend hours and hours and hours in planning, prepping, and scouting so that workshop participants have the best possible experience. That’s just one of the many reasons why 95% of Jennifer’s clients come back!

Furthermore, Jennifer’s workshops are all about skill-building, not just having pretty photos to bring home. In that regard, workshop leaders work directly with each attendee in field sessions and class sessions, and offer constructive critiques of each person’s images. And don’t think that all this takes place in a huge group, either. These workshops are specifically designed to be small group experiences in order to maximize each student’s learning.

Additionally, Jennifer is simply a genuine person that has an authenticity about her that is sometimes lacking in the photography industry. I had a chance to speak with her recently, and was impressed by her drive to help others reach their potential.

Even more inspiring is the fact that Jennifer’s company supports causes like breast cancer awareness through her foundation Photography for the Fight Against Breast Cancer. As a business owner myself, I understand the importance of using our platforms to better the lives of others. That’s why PhotographyTalk supports prostate cancer awareness and other causes.

No matter if you’re a brand new photographer or a seasoned veteran, Jennifer King has the workshops for you. But act fast - many workshops are nearly full or already have a waiting list. That should tell you all you need to know about the quality of these workshops!

Jess Lee Photography Workshops

When: Dates vary depending on location

Base Fee: Varies

Workshop Leader: Jess Lee

While many photography workshops feature expert photographers leading you in beautiful places, what sets Jess Lee photography workshops apart is the emphasis on helping you create images that are uniquely your own.

There’s a dedication from Jess Lee to get workshop participants in the right places at the right times that’s unparalleled in this industry. This helps you take photos that aren’t just breathtaking, but which tell a strong story as well.

These workshops are offered on a limited basis in some of the most incredible locations in the world. You can experience late summer in Monument Valley amongst towering sandstone rock formations, take in the beauty of the Lofoten Islands in Norway in the middle of winter, and trek into Yellowstone National Park in the winter to experience the world’s first National Park in a way that few people get to do. There are many, many other locations available, too.

Again, these tours aren’t just primed for the location, but they’re also perfectly timed.

Late summer in Monument Valley means dramatic thunderstorms rolling across the iconic western landscape. Winter in Lofoten means amazing landscapes shrouded in snow that contrast beautifully with the colorful fishing villages that dot the coastline. And Yellowstone in winter gets you a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular landscapes and wildlife in the world, all amidst a stunning blanket of snow and ice.

You can experience all this in the context of a small group outing with local guides and master photographer Jess Lee, who provides opportunities for you to learn and supports each individual participant in their pursuit of improved photography skills.

Jess Lee has been running workshops since 2000 and has 40 years of experience photographing the world’s beauty from Alaska to Africa and every point in between. Jess’ photos have been featured in National Geographic, Smithsonian, Defenders of Wildlife, National Wildlife, Audubon, Sierra, Paris Match, and many other publications.

If you’re looking for a different kind of photography adventure with unique opportunities to hone your craft, Momenta Workshops is for you.

Not only does Momenta offer exclusive documentary photo adventures in some of the world’s most beautiful locations, but you also get a highly personalized learning experience with a teacher-to-student ratio of just 1:5.

Additionally, Momenta has exclusive luxury photography outings in which you are immersed in the art, culture, and history of photography and get to explore off-the-beaten-path wonderlands with your professional photography guides.

But Momenta isn’t just about catering to the high-end customer. Instead, this company was founded by three people with big hearts and a passion for helping others.

Momenta’s Project Series five-day workshops in the U.S. and two-week international workshops bring the power of photography to the nonprofit world. This is a photography experience of another kind, in which you learn how to use your photography as a force of change with your personally selected nonprofit photography assignment to tell the world about their story and mission through your photos.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with one of Momenta’s founders, Jamie Rose, and boy, was I impressed.

When considering which workshops we grant the privilege to being featured in articles like this, one attribute I consider above all else is that the brains behind the operation love what they do and use their passion for photography to have a positive impact on the world.

Jamie and the Momenta team certainly fit the bill. For example, Jamie has worked as a photojournalist on five continents, where she’s used her skills as a communication strategist to further the mission of some of the largest nonprofits in the world, including Doctors Without Borders, the Global Fund, Physicians for Human Rights, and others. Her co-founder, John Christopher Anderson, went from being a staff photojournalist to a studio manager for Steve McCurry to becoming the youngest photo editor hired in National Geographic’s history, all before he turned 30.

And that’s the kind of folks that lead Momenta’s workshops. True leaders that seek to use their talents to make the world a better place.

If that’s not enough to make you say “WOW!” consider this - more than 700 enthusiastic students have taken part in Momenta Workshops in the past decade, and when you read what they have to say about their experience, it’s no wonder Momenta enjoys such high repeat business. What’s more, Momenta’s workshops and staff are sponsored by Leica Camera and their team was chosen as the exclusive producers of the Leica Akademie USA’s Destinations workshops for 2017-2019, and if that’s not social proof of just how top-flight these workshops are, I don’t know what is!

If you can’t tell, I’m really excited about Momenta Workshops, and you should be too! Get in touch with Momenta today to see where you might take your camera next. For some added inspiration, when you book your workshop, don’t forget to ask about the “Momenta Tree.”

Eloquent Light Photography Workshops

For three decades, Eloquent Light Photography Workshops has been bringing the joy and wonder of photography to people from all walks of life and of all photography skill levels.

Born in the red hills of the Abiquiu area of northern New Mexico - a landscape made famous by Georgia O’Keeffe - Eloquent Light strives to teach photographers how to use the area’s brilliant light and awesome colors to create breathtaking photos of their own.

But don’t think that Eloquent Light is all about landscapes. Though there are workshops that focus on the natural beauty of the seasons as they change the New Mexico landscape from Santa Fe to White Sands National Monument, there are also workshops that help photographers learn how to capture the essence and beauty of the human condition, history, and culture. Still other workshops take you to iconic areas like Death Valley, the Grand Tetons, Big Sur, and Monterey, California.

These workshops range in size from seven to 10 participants, with some boutique workshops having just four participants along for the ride. Either way, you’re sure to get plenty of individual instruction and feedback on your work so you can develop your skills and come away with an improved understanding of how to master the art of photography.

Something else that caught my eye about Eloquent Light is that they spend the majority of their time taking participants out to actually take photographs. Though there is time to sit down and talk photography, share images, edit images, and so forth, the focus here is being out in the field with your camera. That’s something that not all photography workshops provide.

In speaking with Craig Varjabedian, it’s obvious that he’s truly driven by a passion for teaching others about photography. That’s also evident in the fact that he’s published nearly a dozen award-winning photography books, including his latest, Into the Great White Sands, that not only highlight the incredible beauty of the world in which we live but also inspires photographers to learn how to create better photos and think like photographers.

Anchell Photography Workshops

The Historic Santo Domingo Indian Trading Post. Visited by U.S. Presidents and traveling dignitaries.

When: Dates Vary

Base Fee: $2,695 (Cuba) $2,895 (New Mexico)

Workshop Leader: Steve Anchell

If there’s a photography workshop that can also be considered an escape and an opportunity to become intimately familiar with the subjects one photographs, Anchell Photography Workshops has to be at the top of the list.

Spearheaded by Steve Anchell, an internationally published photographer and author, these workshops not only provide you with intimate instruction in photography in small group settings limited to 10 - 12 people, they also get you into the heart of the landscapes, people, culture, and history of the area

The Milagroso (miracle) Cafe and Gift Shop outside the famous Santuario of Chimayo where the sick and disabled come to be healed.

Steve will lead you through the landscapes of Ansel Adams and the subjects that inspired Georgia O'Keeffe in the towns, pueblos, arroyos, soaring cliffs, and desolate landscapes of New Mexico.

With an emphasis on landscapes, people, and travel photography, you’ll dive deep into the subject matter. You’ll learn not just about how to improve your photographs, but also about this area that has inspired so many artists over the years, as you explore the streets of Santa Fe, the Rio Grande Gorge, the ancient dwellings of the Anasazi First People, and beyond.

Man on a bus at the corner of Neptuno y El Prado in Havana, Cuba.

Or, if you prefer, you can accompany Steve to Cuba, a country that has experienced rapid changes amongst its people and culture in recent years. No photographer knows Cuba better than Steve, who has led photography workshops there since 2001.

There, your time will focus on architecture, street photography, and people. You’ll hone your skills using the methods Steve taught at the International Center of Photography in New York City and Santa Fe Photographic Workshops. From art deco architecture to street dancers to visits with Cuban people in their homes, you’ll be immersed in this vibrant culture from moment one.

Cubans love to rodeo and are proud of their skill. If you’re on a workshop during rodeo season, Steve will get you to ground zero.

No matter if you’re a novice or a seasoned veteran behind the lens, Steve’s photography workshops will provide you with the type of instruction and photographic experiences you need to further your skills and become a better photographer. That’s true whether you use a digital camera, film camera, or even a smartphone. Not only will you come away with the knowledge and skills needed to take improved photos, but you’ll also leave having had the experience of a lifetime.

Since 1988, Creative Photo Academy has been offering classes, photo walks, day trips, workshops, and multi-day adventures the world over that inspire, educate, and nurture the growth of photographers of all skill levels and abilities.

What’s so great about Creative Photo Academy is that they offer instruction in a wide variety of photographic pursuits.

Whether you want to learn more about artistic nude photography, hone your landscape photography skills, explore different cultures with your camera, or something in between, Creative Photo Academy is the place to do it.

With award-winning, internationally recognized photographers on hand to teach each course, you can rest assured that you get the best instruction from professional photographers.

If you’re seeking to learn new photography skills and want to experience the photography adventure of a lifetime, consider one of the following workshops.

Weston Figure Workshop

Kim Weston joins Mark Comon to lead this three-day workshop that introduces you to the creative and technical aspects of artistic nude photography.

The setting for the workshop - Carmel, California - is ideal for artistic nudes, with shoot locations that include Wildcat Hill, the Weston Estate, and Cole Weston’s famous ranch.

The focus of this workshop is on using natural light in the spirit of the “Weston Style.” You’ll learn how to create expressive images while working in teams of three photographers. In this supportive environment, you’re given feedback and guidance not just from the workshop instructors but also from your collaborative team and the models as well. Individual instruction time will also be included so that you have a chance to further develop your strengths and address your weaknesses as a photographer.

Get ready to stretch your boundaries, learn new skills, and get out of your comfort zone by joining this workshop!

Eastern Sierra Workshop

The Eastern Sierra is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. As a result, this area is a photographer’s playground full of photographic adventures.

Creative Photo Academy seeks to capitalize on the stunning vistas of the Eastern Sierras to help you expand your photographic skills to take jaw-dropping photos. Using the famed ghost town of Bodie, the breathtaking Lundy Canyon, Rock Creek, Bishop Creek, and Mono Lake as your muses, you’ll develop the skills needed to highlight soaring mountains, expansive deserts, and rushing waters in your photos.

And since this workshop takes place smack in the middle of fall, you’ll also have a chance to photograph an explosion of colors as the aspen trees that dot the canyons of the Eastern Sierra come to vibrant life.

This grand adventure puts you in stunning territory with good friends, knowledgeable instructors, and tons of opportunities for exploration and fun. Whether you’re a new photographer or a grizzled veteran, this workshop has something to offer you!

Splendors of Japan Adventure

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, Creative Photo Academy offers a 10-day excursion to Japan where you will learn how to train your camera on landscapes, street scenes, and cultural attractions to create gorgeous photos.

Mark Comon will be joined by JTB tours in leading you on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Local English-speaking guides will escort you through the streets of Shinjuku, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, introducing you to Japanese culture and important historical sites along the way.

What’s more, you’ll stay in luxury hotels, partake in traditional Japanese cuisine, and meet locals that are eager to share their culture and heritage with you.

That makes this so much more than a photography workshop. Sure, there is time for instruction, learning, and practicing your craft. But more than that, this photography adventure is about learning and exploring a completely different part of the world and appreciating the beauty in the differences from your day-to-day life.

Visionary Wild - Himalaya and Varanasi Expedition

If you're looking for a true photography expedition, the Visionary Wild Himalaya and Varanasi trip is right up your alley.

The adventure is limited to just six guests, giving you the opportunity to have the most hands-on experience of these Indian treasures.

The trip includes two of India's best-known areas - the spiritually rich, ancient Hindu city of Varanasi on the Ganges River (shown above) and the Tibetan Buddhist sanctuary known as Ladakh in the Himalaya region.

The itinerary for this expedition gives you ample opportunity to experience India's culture, people, urban landscapes, and natural environments as well.

You'll also get to work with famed photographer and writer Justin Black and inspiring teacher and Canon mentor Jasminder Oberai.

Storytelling in the South of France

When: June 24-July 1, 2018

Base Fee: $5,945

Workshop Leaders: Joe McNally & Liza Politi

Bring your camera and meet Joe McNally in the French Riviera to shoot on location, participate in technical classes, see demos, and take part in six editing and critiquing sessions with your fellow tour mates and the tour leaders.

Topics for this workshop include metering and exposure, understanding flash and using multiple flashes, story development, photo editing, and more.

Tour locations include Nice, Monte Carlo, Canne, Mougins, Le Promenade Anglais, and other gorgeous locales throughout the South of France.

Joined by Liza Politi, who works with National Geographic to produce expeditions and photography workshops around the world, Joe McNally brings his famed photography style and teachings to this tour to help you develop the skills you need to tell better stories with your photos.

The waters around the island are protected, providing you with ample opportunities to photograph the area's Great White Shark population.

You can observe these incredible animals from specially designed surface cages or take the plunge in a deep-water cage to photograph these amazing animals 30 feet below the water's surface.

The tour leaders, Scott Davis and Ted Cheeseman, have backgrounds in marine biology. Combined with decades of experience in the field with their cameras, they're a perfect duo to lead this photography workshop.

Photography insurance is a vital part of your photography business, yet it can be a confusing topic. In this tutorial, learn the ins and outs of photography insurance so you're informed about what you need to protect your business.

If you're looking for a new subject to photograph to jump-start your creativity, you can find all kinds of inspiration in water reflections. Learn how to photograph water reflections in this quick tutorial.